Halloumi Shawarma – Full Recipe with Details
Description:
Halloumi Shawarma is a vibrant Middle Eastern-inspired vegetarian dish featuring juicy, grilled strips of halloumi cheese marinated in warm shawarma spices. Served in flatbreads or wraps with fresh veggies, creamy sauces like garlic or tahini, and tangy pickles, it’s a bold and satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
For the Shawarma-Spiced Halloumi:
225g halloumi cheese, sliced into thick strips
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp turmeric
½ tsp cinnamon
½ tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
Juice of ½ lemon
2 garlic cloves, minced
For Serving:
2-3 flatbreads or pita wraps
1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
1 small cucumber, sliced thi
1 tomato, diced
Pickled onions or gherkins (optional)
Fresh parsley or mint (optional)
Garlic sauce, tahini sauce, or yogurt sauce
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Halloumi (10 minutes):
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and all the shawarma spices. Toss the halloumi strips gently in the marinade. Let sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb flavors.
2. Grill or Pan-Fry (10 minutes):
Heat a non-stick pan or grill over medium heat. Cook the halloumi for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly crisp at the edges.
3. Prepare the Wraps:
Warm the flatbreads. Spread with garlic sauce or tahini. Layer with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and pickles.
4. Assemble:
Place the grilled halloumi over the veggies. Top with herbs and a drizzle of extra sauce. Roll or fold the flatbread into a wrap.
Time Required:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 10–15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: ~30 minutes
Nutritional Info (per serving, 1 wrap):
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~430 kcal
Protein 18g
Carbohydrates 35g
Fat 24g
Saturated Fat 11g
Fiber 3g
Sugar 4g
Sodium ~950mg
Based on average quantities and typical ingredients
FAQs:
Q: Can I make it vegan?
A: Yes! Replace halloumi with firm tofu or grilled eggplant and use a vegan garlic or tahini sauce.
Q: Can I bake the halloumi instead of frying?
A: Yes, bake at 200°C (400°F) for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.
Q: How long does marinated halloumi last?
A: It can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in a sealed container.
Q: What’s a good side for this?
A: Serve with sweet potato fries, fattoush salad, or hummus and pita chips.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: You can marinate and grill the halloumi ahead of time. Reheat gently in a pan before assembling.